What critical role do protective measures play against lightning strikes?

Protective measures against lightning strikes are essential for safeguarding structures and equipment from damage. Lightning can deliver extremely high voltages and currents, which can result in catastrophic consequences such as fires, explosions, and physical destruction of buildings, electrical systems, and other infrastructure.

By using devices like lightning rods, grounded electrical systems, and surge protectors, these protective measures help to channel the energy from a lightning strike safely into the ground, reducing the risk of damage. This essential function not only preserves the integrity of the structures but also protects the safety of inhabitants and equipment within those structures.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of these protective measures. For example, preventing all electrical usage is impractical and not the objective, as electrical systems are vital for functioning buildings. Similarly, while completely diverting all electrical energy suggests a total interception of lightning, this is not achievable; protective measures can only minimize damage. Lastly, while safety during outdoor activities is important, protective measures do not directly ensure safety when a storm is occurring; rather, they protect the infrastructure that might be affected by lightning strikes.